Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes Recipe

If you’re in the mood for nostalgia baked right into a cookie, Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are simply irresistible. These beautifully simple treats walk the delicious line between cookie and cake, combining tender crumb, buttery richness, and the gentle warmth of nutmeg. They’ve been passed down through generations in Southern kitchens, perfect for enjoying with a cup of sweet tea or sharing at a family gathering. If you’ve never tried the keyphrase, you’re about to fall for true Southern comfort in dessert form.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes lies in their humble, classic lineup of ingredients. Each layer in the simple list brings a little extra something — whether it’s richness, structure, or the perfect hint of spice — that adds up to pure Southern charm.

• All-purpose flour: This provides the structure and softness that keep the tea cakes moist and light.
• Baking soda: A small amount helps the tea cakes rise just enough for that tender, cakey bite.
• Salt: Just a pinch heightens all the other flavors for a perfectly balanced sweetness.
• Ground nutmeg: Adds a nostalgic, gentle warmth and classic old-timey flavor.
• Unsalted butter (softened): The secret to tea cakes that melt in your mouth—use room temperature butter so it creams beautifully.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right, creating those delicate golden edges.
• Large eggs: Bind everything together and add a soft, tender texture to the cookies.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with comforting aroma and depth of flavor.
• Buttermilk: Adds subtle tang and keeps the tea cakes moist and fluffy.

How to Make Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), making sure it’s good and hot by the time your dough is ready. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect, nonstick results every time.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and that touch of ground nutmeg. This mixture is what gives Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes their soft, pillowy bite and subtle spice undertone. Set it aside for the moment.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Grab a large mixing bowl and blend your softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This creaming process is how you get the irresistible lightness and just a little golden crust in the finished tea cakes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in your eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, pour in the vanilla extract for that unmistakable, warm bakery aroma that makes Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes so special.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add your dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry mix — gently folding everything together until a soft dough forms. The alternating adds moisture and keeps the dough light and perfectly textured.

Step 6: Roll and Cut the Dough

Lightly flour a work surface and your rolling pin. Roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thick for that classic tea cake bite — not too thin, not too thick. Use a round cookie cutter to create uniform circles and arrange them about an inch apart on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake the tea cakes in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges just start turning golden. Be careful not to overbake! Let them cool for a few minutes on the pan (they’ll continue to set up), then transfer carefully to a wire rack to finish cooling.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes

Garnishes

For an extra touch, dust the tops of your Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes with powdered sugar or drizzle lightly with a simple vanilla glaze. You can even add a few colorful sprinkles for a charming, festive look when serving to kids — or adults who are kids at heart!

Side Dishes

These tea cakes are perfection alongside classic Southern beverages. Serve them with iced sweet tea, a cup of hot coffee, or even creamy homemade lemonade for a true Southern afternoon treat. For fancier gatherings, pair with seasonal fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your tea cakes on a vintage cake stand or a pretty plate with some edible flowers for special occasions. Stack them up and tie with a ribbon for gifting, or pop them into decorative tins for a heartfelt homemade present.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes tucked away in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay tender and delicious for up to 5 days — if they last that long! Be sure to let them cool completely before storing to avoid unwanted moisture.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch, these tea cakes freeze beautifully. Just line them up in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They keep their flavor and texture for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you enjoy your tea cakes a little warm (and who doesn’t?), pop a few into a low oven (about 300°F) for 3-5 minutes or microwave for 8-10 seconds. This brings that fresh-baked aroma right back and makes the cakes extra inviting.

FAQs

Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute self-rising flour, but be sure to skip the baking soda and salt in the recipe. The texture may be a bit lighter, but Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes will still be tender and delicious.

What’s the best way to prevent the dough from sticking when rolling?

Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin, and if the dough is too soft, you can chill it for about 20-30 minutes. This helps make cutting and lifting the rounds much easier and gives your cookies neat edges.

Can I flavor the tea cakes differently?

Absolutely! While traditional Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes rely on simple vanilla and nutmeg, you can add a touch of lemon zest, almond extract, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for your own twist.

Are these tea cakes supposed to be soft or crispy?

These are meant to be soft and cake-like in the center, with just the tiniest hint of golden crispness at the edges. For a more tender bite, take care not to overbake.

How can I make these tea cakes ahead for a party?

Prepare and cut out the dough, then freeze the raw rounds on a baking sheet. When ready, bake straight from the freezer, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes whenever you need them!

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the memories and comfort tucked inside Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes. If you’ve never made this Southern classic, now’s your chance to bring a little sweetness and tradition into your kitchen. Go ahead, bake up a batch and experience just how delightful these simple, time-honored cookies can be!

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